CONFORMATION

Showing dogs is a great sport where the thrill of competition is combined with the joy of seeing beautiful dogs. Conformation shows are one of many types of AKC dog events in which AKC-registered dogs can compete. These events, draw over three million entries annually. Conformation events are intended to evaluate breeding stock. The size of these events ranges from large all-breed shows, with over 3,000 dogs entered, to small local specialty club shows, featuring a specific breed. The dog's conformation (overall appearance and structure), which is an indication of the dog's ability to produce quality puppies, is judged.

Which Dogs May Participate

To be eligible to compete, a dog must:

•be individually registered with the American Kennel Club

•be 6 months of age or older

•be a breed for which classes are offered at a show

•meet any eligibility requirements in the written standard for its breed

Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a dog show, because the purpose of a dog show is to evaluate breeding stock.

Courtesy of the AKC Read more about conformation at www.akc.org/events/conformation/beginners.cfm